Occipital Bone Anatomy

Introduction to the Occipital bone anatomy:

The occipital bone (L., occipital – “back of the head”) is a cranial bone that surrounds the back and base regions of the brain.

Along with its inferior and internal surfaces is the prominent foramen magnum, which allows the spinal cord to pass through the skull.

The broad, curved region superior to the foramen magnum is called the squamous part (= squama occipitalis) of the bone. Anterior to the foramen magnum is the basilar part and to the sides are the lateral parts.

Markings of the Occipital Bone:

External occipital protuberance – elevation (larger in men) near the center of the squamous part; attachment point for ligamentum nuchae and trapezius muscle.[Posterior view/ Inferior view]

Superior nuchal line – a ridge that runs horizontally from either side of the external occipital protuberance; attachment point for several muscles that control the position of the head and neck. [Posterior view/ Inferior view]

Inferior nuchal line – a ridge that runs horizontally from both sides of the median nuchal line below the superior nuchal line; attachment point for several muscles that control the position of the head and neck. [Posterior view/ Inferior view]